Best Empire Waist Dresses of 2026

Mary Hopper Avatar
Mary Hopper
Last Updated: Jan 29, 2026

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Empire waist dresses are a timeless and elegant style of dress that has been popular for centuries. These dresses are characterized by a waistline that sits just below the bust, creating a flattering and feminine silhouette. Empire waist dresses are perfect for any occasion, from formal events to casual outings. They come in a variety of fabrics, such as silk, chiffon, and cotton, and can be embellished with lace, embroidery, or beading. Whether you prefer a flowy maxi dress or a fitted cocktail dress, there is an empire waist dress for every taste and style.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

DB MOON Women Black Maxi Dress with Pocket Cover #TOP 1
DB MOON Women Black Maxi Dress with Pocket
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Zeagoo Semi-Formal Black Empire Waist Dress with Pockets Cover #TOP 2
Zeagoo Semi-Formal Black Empire Waist Dress with Pockets
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Dokotoo Ribbed Knit Empire Waist Dress Cover #TOP 3
Dokotoo Ribbed Knit Empire Waist Dress
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Empire Waist Dresses

#TOP 1

DB MOON Women Black Maxi Dress with Pocket

DM000Y02S02A
Black
Large
DB MOON Women Black Maxi Dress with Pocket Cover
DB MOON Women Casual Long Sleeve Black Maxi Dresses Empire Waist Long Dress with Pocket L

The DB MOON Black Maxi Dress offers you a comfortable fit thanks to its soft, high-quality fabric that feels great all day long. Its stretchy material makes it easy to move around in, ensuring comfort wherever you go. The dress features an elegant empire waist design that flatters your figure while providing a loose, flowy fit for added ease. With a stylish long sleeve and practical pockets, this dress combines fashion with function, perfect for casual outings or special occasions. Available in multiple sizes, it’s a versatile choice that can fit your style and needs effortlessly.

What We Like
Soft, high-quality fabric
Stretchy, comfortable fit
Flattering empire waist design
Convenient pockets
Multiple size options
#TOP 2

Zeagoo Semi-Formal Black Empire Waist Dress with Pockets

01 Solid Black
X-Large
Zeagoo Semi-Formal Black Empire Waist Dress with Pockets Cover
Zeagoo Semi-Formal Black Dress Elbow Length Women's Dress Casual Flowy A-Line Tummy Control Midi Tshirt Dresses with Pocket Empire Waist Summer Boho Beach Sundress Black XL

The Zeagoo Black Empire Dress offers a comfortable fit with its stretchy blend of polyester and spandex, making it light and breathable for all-day wear. Its 3/4 sleeves provide modest coverage while keeping you cool in warmer weather. The empire waist design flatters your figure by accentuating your waistline, giving you a stylish silhouette. Plus, the convenient pockets add functionality, allowing you to carry small essentials hands-free. This dress combines comfort, style, and practicality, making it a great choice for casual outings and summer days.

What We Like
Stretchy breathable fabric
3/4 sleeve coverage
Flattering empire waist
Functional pockets

Dokotoo Ribbed Knit Empire Waist Dress

DA5W6124781-P2-M
Black
Medium
Dokotoo Ribbed Knit Empire Waist Dress Cover
Dokotoo Spring Dresses for Women V Neck Ribbed Knit Texture Empire Waist Long Sleeve Dress Swing Flared Ruffle Cute Casual Womens Summer Dresses Wedding Guest Party Short Mini Dress Black Medium

The Dokotoo Ribbed Knit Dress offers a flattering and comfortable fit with its empire waist design, which highlights your figure while providing ease of movement. Its V-neckline adds a stylish and slightly daring touch, perfect for enhancing your look on various occasions. Made from a soft, stretchy ribbed knit fabric, this dress feels gentle on your skin and adapts to different body shapes. The long sleeves and flared skirt with tiered ruffles create a playful and chic appearance, making this dress a versatile choice for both casual and dressier events.

What We Like
Flattering empire waist
Soft stretchy fabric
Stylish V-neck design
Playful tiered ruffle skirt
Long sleeve comfort
#TOP 4

OFEEFAN Long Sleeve Empire Waist Sweater Dress

Green
Large
OFEEFAN Long Sleeve Empire Waist Sweater Dress Cover
OFEEFAN Sweater Dress Winter Clothing for Women Long Sleeve Dress Fall Dresses for Women 2025 Tunic Christmas Dresses Fall Maternity Clothes Green L

The OFEEFAN Winter Sweater Dress offers a flattering fit that drapes nicely, making it a versatile choice you can easily dress up or down for fall and winter. Its long sleeves provide extra warmth, perfect for chilly days. The empire waist design adds a stylish touch while ensuring comfort and a flattering silhouette. Plus, the convenient pockets give you a handy place to keep small essentials close by. Whether you're pairing it with leggings, jeans, or boots, this dress is a great addition to your casual or special occasion wardrobe.

What We Like
Flattering draped fit
Long sleeves for warmth
Empire waist design
Convenient pockets
Versatile for many occasions
#TOP 5

PRETTYGARDEN Floral Maxi Dress 2026

Floral Khaki
Medium
PRETTYGARDEN Floral Maxi Dress 2026 Cover
PRETTYGARDEN Women's Floral Maxi Dress 2026 Fall Long Sleeve V Neck A Line Long Flowy Spring Party Boho Dresses (Floral Khaki,Medium)

The PRETTYGARDEN Floral Maxi is designed for comfort and style. Its soft fabric drapes smoothly, allowing you to move freely whether you're at a casual outing or a special event. This dress features a flattering V-neck and empire waist, enhancing your silhouette while keeping things relaxed. The vibrant floral print adds a lively and feminine touch, perfect for brightening your look during spring or fall. Plus, the long sleeves and flowy design make it versatile for various occasions, from daytime activities to evening parties.

What We Like
Comfortable soft fabric
Flattering V-neck design
Vibrant floral print
Versatile for many occasions
Flowy, easy movement

NENONA 2025 Fall Sweater Dress

Elegant Sweater Dress
Black
Medium
NENONA 2025 Fall Sweater Dress Cover
NENONA Women's 2025 Fall Sweater Dress Winter Long Sleeve Fashion Button Elegant Business Work Formal Wedding Guest Cocktail Dresses,Black,M

The NENONA Fall Sweater Dress offers a perfect mix of comfort and style with its soft, stretchy knit fabric that feels gentle on your skin. Its long sleeves and round neckline provide warmth and coverage, ideal for cooler weather. The elegant gold-tone buttons and empire waist design highlight your figure, giving you a chic, vintage-inspired look. This dress easily transitions from business settings to special occasions, making it versatile for everything from work to weddings. You can dress it up with heels or keep it casual, ensuring you feel confident and stylish all day long.

What We Like
Soft, stretchy knit fabric
Elegant gold-tone buttons
Flattering empire waist
Versatile for many occasions
#TOP 7

OFEEFAN Long Sleeve Empire Waist Sweater Dress

WDR9165CSE6273U0701
Green
Medium
OFEEFAN Long Sleeve Empire Waist Sweater Dress Cover
OFEEFAN Fall Dresses for Women Fashion Clothing Cowboy Chic Wedding Guest Dresses Long Sleeve Dress Empire Waist Maternity Dress Winter Christmas Green M

The OFEEFAN Empire Waist Dress is crafted from a soft blend of rayon, polyester, and spandex, giving you a lightweight feel while keeping you warm throughout the day. Its stretchy fabric moves easily with your body, ensuring comfort whether you're at work or out with friends. The dress features a flattering V-neck and an empire waist with a babydoll style, which helps to gently conceal your midsection. Plus, its above-the-knee length and loose fit make it versatile for dressing up or down. You can easily pair it with leggings, boots, or jackets for a stylish look in fall, winter, or spring.

What We Like
Soft, stretchy fabric
Flattering empire waist
Lightweight yet warm
Versatile styling options
Comfortable all-day wear
#TOP 8

OFEEFAN Women's Fall Long Sleeve Dress

Beige Plaid
Medium
OFEEFAN Women's Fall Long Sleeve Dress Cover
OFEEFAN Fall Dresses for Women 2025 Fashion Long Sleeve Winter Clothing Pleated Casual Chocolate Brown Fall Clothes Tunic Sweater Dress Beige Plaid M

The OFEEFAN Fall Dress is designed with your comfort and style in mind. Its classic crew neck and chest pleats add a touch of elegance, while the empire waist and A-line silhouette flatter any body shape. Made from soft, breathable, and stretchy materials, this dress feels gentle on your skin and allows easy movement throughout the day. You can wear it year-round, pairing it with boots or layering with jackets to stay warm in colder weather. Whether you're heading to work, a party, or just out shopping, this versatile dress keeps you looking fashionable and feeling comfortable.

What We Like
Soft, breathable fabric
Flattering A-line design
Year-round versatility
Comfortable stretchy material
Classic crew neck style
#TOP 9

Zeagoo Navy Blue Floral Midi Dress

Navy Blue Floral
Large
Zeagoo Navy Blue Floral Midi Dress Cover
Zeagoo Casual Midi Dresses for Women 3/4 Length Sleeve Elegant Party Dress Aline Casual Floal Loose Dresses Flowy Swing Empire Waist Dress Navy Blue Floral

The Zeagoo Floral Midi Dress offers a comfortable fit with its soft, stretchy fabric made from polyester and spandex, making it suitable for year-round wear. Its three-quarter sleeves and below-the-knee length provide a modest yet stylish look that works well for many occasions. The dress features a flattering A-line silhouette with an elastic waist and flowing hemline, giving you an elegant and relaxed feel. Plus, with two side pockets, you get added convenience for carrying small items. You can easily dress it up with heels and jewelry or keep it casual with sandals or sneakers, making it a versatile addition to your wardrobe.

What We Like
Soft stretchy fabric
Elegant A-line design
Convenient side pockets
Versatile styling options
Suitable for all seasons
#TOP 10

RWJ Plus Size Black V-Neck Maxi Dress

RWJ
2025-FW-6720-Black-2XL
Black
XX-Large Plus
RWJ Plus Size Black V-Neck Maxi Dress Cover
RWJ Plus Size Cocktail Dress, Women's Formal Wedding Guest Dresses Elegant V Neck Smocked A-Line Empire Waist Long Sleeve Maxi Dress with Pockets Black XX-Large

The RWJ Plus Size Maxi Dress is crafted from soft and lightweight polyester, making it comfortable to wear during spring, summer, and fall. Its V-neck design adds elegance while the ruffled long sleeves bring a stylish touch. You’ll appreciate the smocked back and high empire waist that help conceal your tummy, offering a flattering silhouette. Plus, the pleated A-line cut allows for easy movement and highlights your curves gracefully. This dress also features convenient side pockets, perfect for keeping small essentials close during formal events or parties.

What We Like
Soft, lightweight fabric
Flattering empire waist
Functional side pockets
Elegant V-neck design
Comfortable pleated A-line cut
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our empire waist dress research, we found 48 empire waist dress products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 29,395 customer reviews through our big data system to write the empire waist dresses list. We found that most customers choose empire waist dresses with an average price of $41.45.

The empire waist dresses are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of empire waist dresses, including DB MOON, Zeagoo, Dokotoo, OFEEFAN, PRETTYGARDEN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 685 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Mary Hopper Avatar

Mary Hopper is an Italian fashion designer with 10 years of extensive working experience in the fashion industry. She can design clothing and fashion accessories, such as handbags, backpacks, shoes, and jewelry. She is also a professionally trained content writer specializing in managing various fashion and beauty blogs.